Searching for spellcheckers

What kids want, what kids need

Conference paper (2019)

Authors

Brody Downs Boise State University

Tyler French Boise State University

Katherine Landau Wright Boise State University

M.S. Pera Boise State University

Casey Kennington Boise State University

Jerry Alan Fails Boise State University

Affiliation

External organisation

Children Participatory design Web search Spelling

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Published Date

12-06-2019

Language

English

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External organisation

Abstract

Misspellings in queries used to initiate online searches is an everyday occurrence. When this happens, users either rely on the search engine's ability to understand their query or they turn to spellcheckers. Spellcheckers are usually based on popular dictionaries or past query logs, leading to spelling suggestions that often better resonate with adult users because that data is more readily available. Based on an educational perspective, previous research reports, and initial analyses of sample search logs, we hypothesize that existing spellcheckers are not suitable for young users who frequently encounter spelling challenges when searching for information online. We present early results of our ongoing research focused on identifying the needs and expectations children have regarding spellcheckers.